The Recruiter’s View: How to Hire Smarter in Procurement

Hiring in procurement has always been competitive, but the current market is a different challenge entirely. With fewer active candidates and growing salary demands, employers need to rethink their hiring processes if they want to stay ahead.

Here are the insights and actions I believe make all the difference.

Active vs Passive Talent

One of the biggest challenges right now is the limited pool of active candidates. By “active,” we mean those already applying for roles and sharing their CVs online. That group is shrinking. The best candidates are often passive – not actively job hunting, but open to the right opportunity.

This is why working with a specialist recruiter matters. We have the network, the relationships, and the experience to connect you with professionals you won’t find through job ads alone.

Don’t Lose Good Candidates to Delay

Speed is everything. One of the most common mistakes employers make is taking too long between stages. If your interview process stretches across several weeks, you risk losing your preferred candidate to a faster-moving competitor.

The solution? Get your key decision-makers involved early and try to reduce the number of stages. If you like a CV, don’t wait. Interview quickly, keep communication open, and make decisions promptly.

Salary and Benefits: What You Need to Offer

Candidates are expecting bigger salary increases than before. If your offer doesn’t represent a clear step up, you’re unlikely to succeed. Hybrid and flexible working remain crucial. Failing to offer this will reduce your talent pool significantly.

In terms of role types, we’re seeing consistent demand for IT procurement, electronics and specialist commodities. Global procurement could also see growth over the next 12 months, particularly as tariff changes and supply chain risks remain top of mind.

What’s Next for Procurement Hiring?

We may see a shift in sourcing strategies, with more businesses looking to shorten supply chains and increase domestic manufacturing. That will influence hiring, particularly in planning and logistics roles.

Technology and AI remain uncertain in the procurement space. I expect to see more impact in demand and supply planning before we see major changes in core purchasing. For now, it’s a case of watching and preparing.

One Final Thought

Good people don’t wait around. If you find someone who fits the brief, move fast. The businesses that do are the ones that hire the best talent.

Want to improve your procurement hiring strategy? Whether you’re recruiting for growth or backfilling a key role, we can help you find the right candidates quickly.

Message Tyriq Taylor on LinkedIn or speak to The Portfolio Group today